John Howard: Former PM blames Xi Jinping’s “different” attitude for Australia-China tensions

Former PM John Howard has spoken out on what he believes is a “harder” relationship with the Chinese government while touring Victoria’s most marginal seat.

Former Prime Minister John Howard campaigning with Chisholm Liberal MP Gladys Liu on Kingsway in Glen Waverley, Melbourne. Picture: Ian Currie

Former prime minister John Howard has blamed Chinese president Xi Jinping’s “different” attitude for the state of Australia’s relationship with China while campaigning with MP Gladys Liu in one Melbourne’s Asian heartlands.

Mr Howard said the Chinese people were not to blame for any diplomatic tensions between the two countries, saying things were “harder” for Australia under Mr Jinping.

“The damage has been caused by the Chinese leadership, not the Chinese people,” Mr Howard said while visiting Glen Waverley on Tuesday with Hong Kong-born Ms Liu.

“Chinese leadership is now different from what it was some years ago, I had good relationships with two Chinese presidents, it’s harder now because the attitude of Xi Jinping is different.

“There is a lot of warm history between the people of China and the people of Australia, and if there is quarrels and there’s difficulties, it’s not the fault of the Chinese people, it’s the fault of the current Chinese leadership.”

Mr Howard hit the campaign trail in Victoria’s two most marginal seats on Tuesday to help Ms Liu in Chisholm and Katie Allen in Higgins in their re-election bids.

Ms Liu holds Chisholm by just 0.5 per cent, and Mr Howard said he came for a cappuccino and a stroll down food precinct Kingsway to “make sure she keeps it”.

Former prime minister John Howard greets Chisholm Liberal MP Gladys Liu on Kingsway in Glen Waverley, Melbourne. Picture: Ian Currie

Former prime minister John Howard had a coffee with Liberal MP for Chisholm Gladys Liu at Mocha Jos on Kingsway in Glen Waverley on Tuesday, May 17. Picture: Ian Currie

“It’s always been a marginal seat, she’s won it (in 2019), she’s worked hard, and I’m here to make sure she keeps it, and make my contribution,” he said.

“This is going to be a real tight election … my view is we will hold Chisholm because the local member factor will come through.

“When things are tight, if you have a good local member who has worked hard and is popular and identifies with the area, it makes a difference.”

Ms Liu, who has previously been scrutinised for memberships with organisations affiliated with the Chinese Government, issued a firm “no” when asked if she had been approached by Chinese political groups or foreign donors to contribute to her campaign.

She also said she had faith that Chinese Australians would vote for what is best for the country, and not be influenced by any political opinions in their former homeland.

“They know what is important to our country and everyone living in this country,” Ms Liu said.

“I respect people’s judgment and choice and I hope all Australians will think sensibly and do the right thing for the country.”